Ski Team Honors Former Captain in New Legacy Race for Ski East

Hingham High ski team and coaches, along with Alison and Michael Cundari, were on hand for the inaugural Francis Cundari Legacy Ski Challenge Sunday at Ragged Mountain, NH.

February 3, 2025 – Story and photos by Joshua Ross

Ski East held the 1st Annual Francis Cundari Legacy Ski Challenge Sunday at Ragged Mountain, NH during the last regular season race of the year.

Francis’ parents, Alison and Michael, made the 2.5 hour trip up to present the inaugural trophies to the winning teams.  After the race, his parents thanked Ski East and Hingham High ski team for their support and dedication to bring awareness to mental health.  Fran, as he was known to his friends, was captain of the ski team in 2018/19 and was also on the soccer team.  After graduating from HHS, Fran attended the University of Vermont and worked in the family’s cabinet making business.  Fran passed away on March 19th, 2024.

Alison read the following inscription on the back of each trophy:

We dedicate this alpine ski race to the memory of Francis “Fran” Cundari. He was a remarkable young man with a passion for the outdoors.  Fran inspired all who knew him. Fran was a former ski captain for Hingham High School ski team in 2018 and 2019, being an avid skier wanting to challenge himself and his team members.  He was passionate about skiing, hiking, sailing, and gardening.  His energy, commitment and kindness touched all who knew him. Fran’s untimely passing is a poignant reminder of the importance of mental health and well being amongst teens and young adults.  Our goal with the legacy race is to honor Fran’s support of a strong ski community which uplifts and supports individuals experiencing mental, emotional or social challenges.

May this event serve as a call to action for ensuring mental health awareness and well being. 

Head coach Elizabeth Vialle, along with Alison and Michael Cundari, say a few words about Fran’s impact on the ski and Hingham communities.

Elizabeth Vialle,  current head coach of Hingham’s ski team, was assistant coach during Fran’s four years on the team.  She reflects fondly on what Fran meant to the team and the community.

“To have the chance to honor Fran and the positive impact he had on our team and the league, as well as bring attention to the importance of mental health, was incredibly important to our team, both past and current members,” Vialle tells the Anchor. “Fran’s sportsmanship and integrity that he brought to the hill as a captain have become two core characteristics of our team. What is so special about the ski community is how we all come together to support each other in both happy and hard times, regardless of what team we represent. For me, to stand with Fran’s parents Alison and Michael and celebrate Fran’s Legacy is something I will cherish every time I step on a ski slope.”

If you or someone you know is faced with mental health issues or thoughts of suicide, there are a number of local and national resources available to you –

Mom2Moms – local support group

American Foundation of Suicide Prevention

Suicide Prevention Hotline 24/7 – call or text “TALK” to 988 for help

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